Cookies Cream

This acclaimed vegetarian restaurant, owned by nightclub impresario Heinz Gindullis (nicknamed Cookie), is no longer a secret but finding it remains an adventure. A tiny sign bearing the number 55 leads guests down a long, dumpster-lined alley behind the Westin Hotel. At the end, there’s a small buzzer, which you ring to give your name (the restaurant is strictly reservations only) before taking a dimly-lit staircase to the restaurant on the first floor.

In New York or London, this type of underground restaurant is often jarringly hip with a cooler-than-thou staff. Here, it could not be more relaxed and cozy. An open kitchen greets diners who are seated in the intimate dining room. There’s a groovy soundtrack but it’s soft enough that one can have a good conversation, even with a group. The food is incredibly innovative and complex vegetarian fare with an often-changing, seasonal menu. Many think if they make a late-enough reservation at Cookies Cream, they can just mosey downstairs to Cookies nightclub afterwards, but the Berlin clubbing scene doesn’t really kick off until 2 a.m. or later, so most don’t make it.

Cookies Cream should be top-of-the-list for travelers looking for really interesting, flavorful food in a cool setting. Those who prefer a more classic approach to fine dining will be happier at one of the Michelin-starred spots like Facil or Fischers Fritz. Cookies is in walking distance to the Regent Berlin and the Hotel de Rome.